2018 Arizona state shipping laws, regulations, rules and limitations for oversize and overweight trucking on state highways and roads.

“The Arizona Department of Transportation in cooperation with state representatives, industry, the Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement personnel work in collaboration to update and amend oversize and overweight special permit rules containing special permit requirements, restrictions and allowances for transporting oversize and overweight vehicles and loads on highways under the jurisdiction of the Department. This is a council established in statute and makes up the Over-dimensional Permit Council.

These rules detail the eligibility, application and use requirements for a variety of permits the Department currently issues to commercial motor carriers for transporting vehicles or vehicle and load combinations exceeding the maximum size or weight limitations provided by statute.

Each special permit provided by the Department under these rules is specifically authorized by statute. The oversize and overweight special permits issued under these rules are that each permittee issued a particular class of permit is subject to the same activities, practices, requirements and restrictions applicable to that permit type. The statutes additionally provide authority for issuance, conditions, restrictions, approvals and fees.”

Do I need a trucking permit? Legal load limits.

Arizona maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required:

Length: Anything over 65 feet in length overall requires a permit on non-designated highways.Overhang: 3 feet in the front and 6 feet off of the rear of trailer maximum (make sure your route is approved for overhang as there are location variations).Weight: 80,000 pounds overall (GVW), 12,000 pounds on steer axle.Width: 8 feet and 6 inches wide maximum.Height: 14 feet maximum on interstates and 13 feet and 6 inches in height on secondary roads.

Routine heavy haul and oversize trucking permits in Arizona.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in Arizona:

Length: 120 feet maximum or proceed to super load section.

Weight: 250,000 pounds maximum (Class C if over or see superloads). Single axle is 28,000 pounds maximum. All tandem, tridum, trunnion and quadem axle configurations depend on axle spacings and tire sizes. Gross weight maximums: 5 axles is 104,000 pounds, 6 axles is 108,000 pounds, 7 axles is 117,000 pounds. The permissible maximum weights depend on the number of tires combined with the overall distance between each of the axles. Spacings on axles are a little bit tricky in this state. The Arizona DOT permits office will consider a number or factors but it’s primarily about the bridges which could require a route survey if extreme weights are involved. If weights are excessive and trailer capabilities are even close to short of maxing out, forget it! Pavement, structural and stress testing results will govern your overall permissible capabilities.

Overhang: 3 feet of front or 6 feet off of the rear or any configuration that is in excess of 75 feet. They could require you to use a stretch trailer before allowing you to proceed under super load provisions.

Notes: These above routinely permitted shipments will need to be filed as class “A” permits. Class A permits are anything under 120 feet in length, 14 feet in width, 16 feet in height or under 250,000 pounds overall. Maximum speed is set at 55 mph for all oversize/overweight shipments.

Super load information for Arizona.

Arizona state DOT will classify your shipment as a super load if you are in excess of any of the following:

If a shipment exceeds any of the following it is classified as a superload and will require a class C permit. Class C permits are “super load permits”. If any shipment is in excess of 120 feet in length or 14 feet in width or 16 feet in height or 250,000 pounds in weight it is classified as a super load.
Notes: For mobile home shipments and more class C permit information expand the file just below.

Applications for class C permits should ideally be submitted via the ADOT ePRO System. They do have other options but we strongly suggest you use the method they prefer. While it’s not a 100% guarantee you can usually get a Class C permit in 48 hours (excluding evenings, weekends and state holidays). Once it is approved you will see pending/approved/refused when you log in. The fee is $30 for class C shipments that are no greater than 18 feet in height and/or width and 80,000 pounds. Shipments that are over 80,000 pounds are $90. Shipments that are over 18 feet in height and width, but not over 80,000 pounds, are $40. For shipments that are greater than 18 feet in height and width and/or 80,000 pounds are $100. Typical class C permits are only valid for 4 working days unless otherwise specified. In order to obtain a class C permit extension beyond the 4 day working allowance you must either have inclement weather issues or equipment breakdown issues.

ADOT ePRO payment screen if requesting 3 a.m. or weekend movement for loads up to 16 feet wide and 16 feet high. The entire route must be designated for night movement, weekend movement or both or it will be denied.

For mobile home shipments:

16 feet wide

16 feet high

120 feet in overall length (vehicle and load combination length)

80,000 pounds combined gross vehicle weight rating

Within statutory axle group weight limits

ADOT ePRO. “Easy” Class C Mobile Home Permits are only valid on ADOT roadways. Transporters must check with local jurisdictions for permission to travel on roadways that are not under ADOT jurisdiction.

If shipment is over 102″ in width it must be flagged on the 4 outtermost corners of the entire combined shipment. Flags must be red in color and be not less than 12″ in either direction. Proper “OVERSIZE LOAD” or “WIDELOAD” banner/sign bust be displayed on both the upper most front of overall shipment (front of truck) no less than 5′ from the pavement line. Banner/sign must be no less than 6′ in length and 12′ in height with reasonable and size letting thickness and height. If you are seeking or awarded night movement reflective or illuminated banners/signs are required.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanies by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

Pilot cars/escort vehicle certifications and requirements.

For a vehicle to qualify; all pilot car/escort vehicles must have a manufacturers gross weight rating not to exceed over over 20,000 pounds. All pilot cars/escort vehicles must display a bumper or roof mounted “OVERSIZE LOAD” sign visible from both the front and rear of the vehicle. Sign must be at least 6 feet long and 12 inches in height, yellow in color with black letters no less than 5 inches tall and 1 inch in width. Vehicle must have 4 safety flags displayed in red or orange in color and be a minimum of 12 inches in length quare and/or height mounted at a 40 to 70 degree angle on all 4 corners of the vehicle. Vehicle must be equipped with a CB radio or 2-way communication device, 8 ignitable road flares and have a first-aid kit.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy haul loads in Arizona.

Travel times and restrictions for heavy-haul and oversize loads:

The one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset rule applies. Travel on weekends and holidays is permitted. Night time travel applies to any shipment that does not exceed 120 feet in length or 16 feet wide or 16 feet tall or less than 250,000 pounds. If your are empty but over weight you’ll be allowed to travel continuously more than likely. If overweight only you will probably be allowed continuous travel. Under 10 feet of overhang, 10 feet in width or 14 feet in height will more than likely be granted continuous travel. Some loads will NOT be granted travel on weekends. Always refer to the documentation on your permit to verify travel times.

Maximum weight on a single axle is 28,000 pounds, on tandem axles or tried him as well as for axles it depends entirely upon the axle spacings and tire sizes. Trunnion: 60,000 pounds the gross raid on five axles is 104,000 pounds on six axles 108,000 pounds and on seven axles 117,000 pounds again depending on the actual number of tires, the distance between the axles and the actual tire size itself. Be sure to check with the state for any additional requirements or questions you may have. Pavement stress and bridge capacities will be the determining factor for the maximum permitted weights. For Arizona class A permits you must be less than the following: up to 14 feet wide, 16 feet high, 120 feet in length or 250,000 pounds. A truck operating under a class A permit will be allowed weekend travel from 3 AM until 12 noon on Saturday and Sunday or non holiday weekends, only on specific highways and with applicable escort. A height pole on escort vehicles or pilot cars is determined by the state. If the shipment exceeds any of these dimensions or weights refer to the section on superloads above. A superload is also classified as a class C shipment in the state of Arizona. A shipment is classified as a class C shipment and needs a class C permit issued if it is over 14 feet wide, 120 feet long, 16 feet high and/or in excess of 250,000 pounds. The maximum speed for any heavy haul or oversize shipment is 55 mph within the state of Arizona. Any specialized equipment that is not loaded is automatically granted continuous travel unless otherwise specified.

Heavy haul in oversize load truck signs and flags that are required.

All oversize, long-load or wideload signs should be a minimum of 6 feet wide and 1 feet tall and shall be mounted on the forward most part of the tractor-trailer and the rearmost part of the load or the vehicle which the shipment is loaded onto in such a manner that is clearly visible to motorists. This sign should have a yellow background with black letters and if you wish to move during daylight hours the background must be reflective or illuminated so it is clearly visible. All over-width vehicles wider than 8’6″ or transporting a load that is exceeding 9 feet in width must display oversize load signs. All shipments and vehicles must be flagged with red flags that are a minimum of 12 inches square or larger on all extremities. All loads or vehicles with an overhang in the front or the rear must be flagged and/or lighted.

Pilot car or escort requirements for heavy haul and oversize loads.

All pilot cars or escort vehicles must be a passenger car or a two axle truck not exceeding 20,000 pounds in total weight. All escort vehicles and pilot cars shall display red flags are are a minimum of 12 inches square on all corners of the vehicle and be fitted with a oversize load sign facing in the applicable direction. This sign must be a minimum of 5 feet above the ground and mounted securely to the vehicle. Signs must be a minimum of 5 feet 1 inches tall with 1 inch thick black letters on a yellow background. Warning lights are required. Each pilot car or escort vehicle needs to be equipped with a two-way radio capable of transmitting and receiving over a minimum distance of 1 mile and must be compatible with all other vehicles involved in the shipment. Each pilot car or escort vehicle must have a minimum of eight flares, one first-aid kit, to red flags and any other equipment specified by AASHTO standards. a minimum distance of 1000 feet shall be maintained between the escort vehicle and the shipment except where visual contact is not obtainable. When in urban areas the distance needs to be between 100 and 250 feet maximum. Arizona state pilot car and escort vehicle certification certificate must be carried by all pilot car and escort vehicle operators. If the operator has a certification in another state as long as the certification is CVSA (Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance) recognized the state of Arizona will recognize it.

Travel time. Note: Arizona does not recognize daylight savings time.

Daylight hours are one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset. Night travel may be allowed for vehicles that do not exceed 16 feet wide, 16 feet high, 120 feet long or less than 250,000 pounds. Refer to your permit. A load within these limits shall have escort vehicles if 11 feet wide to 14 feet wide; 1 rear pilot car or escort vehicle is required or if 14’1″ to 16 feet wide you will need a front and rear pilot car and escort vehicle. If the shipment is in excess of 15 feet in height you may be required to have a pilot car with a height pole.

Weekend travel: if the shipment is not greater than: 16 feet wide, 16 feet high, 120 feet long or 250,000 pounds it may be allowed to travel on specified routes from 3 AM until 12 noon on weekends.

Night movement: for shipments that do not exceed any of the following dimensions: 16 feet wide, 16 feet high, 120 feet long and/or 250,000 pounds, night moves should be permitted and noted (if allowed on your route) under restrictions on your permit.

Heavy haul only: shipments that are not over 10 feet wide or not over 14 feet tall with less than 10 feet of overhang may be granted continuous travel with a permit. However no travel may be allowed on Saturdays or Sundays be advised that no movement will be allowed during snow or icy conditions or any severe weather conditions that might be hazardous to motorist or detrimental to the roads and highways.

Travel time is prohibited on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. If the proceeding holidays falls on a Monday them shipment shall stop before 12 noon the Friday preceding the national holiday. The state permit office will be closed on these holidays as well as on Lincoln’s birthday, Washington’s Birthday, Columbus Day and Veterans Day. Travel will not be restricted on these four days however there is a curfew. Permitted vehicles are prohibited from I-17, I-10 and SR 360 within city limits of greater Phoenix and I-10 and I-19 within city limits of the greater Tucson area from 7 to 9 AM and 4 to 6 PM.

Weather restrictions for heavy haul and oversize loads.

Whenever driver visibility is restricted you may not travel especially when visibility is less than 500 feet. This can be due to snow, heavy rain, followed or dust. Road surface condition reduces normal traction and under conditions of flooding, ice or snow you may not travel this also applies to high winds or anything else or conditions that may suggest any injury to motorists or the road.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Arizona State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Locate oversize, heavy-haul trucking companies and pilot cars:

Do I need a trucking permit? Legal load limits.

Michigan maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required:

Length: Overall no longer than 75 feet on designated highways. Trailer length maximum is 50 feet on non-designated and 53 feet on designated.Width: 96 inches on non designated highways and 102 inches (8 feet 6 inches.) on designated.Height: 13 feet 6 inches tall.Weight: 80,000 pounds GVW, 20,000 pounds on single axles (not steer), 34,000 pounds on tandem axles.Overhang: 3 feet in the front and anything over 4 feet in the rear must be red flagged in the day and have a red light at night.Notes: There’s no restriction on maximum length of combination of truck-tractor and semitrailer with or without load

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in Michigan:

Length: Under 150 feet in length. Anything over 150 feet is classified as a superload (105 feet maximum for mobile homes).Width: Figure up to 16 feet as a routine permit. Anything over is going to looked at seriously and they may even classify you as superload.Height: Up to 15 feet is routine. If you are over 15 feet high count on needing a route survey.Weight: All weights in excess of 80,000 pounds over all are decided on a case by case basis. Anything over 150,000 lbs is subject to a bridge weight study.Overhang: Any shipment in excess of 4 feet of overhang is permitted on a case by case basis only.Notes: Maximum speed for any permitted shipment is 45 MPH. Permits for heavy shipments may take more than 10 days to process.

Michigan superloads.

Information about shipping superloads in the state of Michigan.

If your shipment is in excess of any of the following weights or dimensions it may be classified as a superload.

Length: Anything over 150 feet.Width: 16 feet or over.Height: 15 feet and over is classified as a superload. Some limited routes may vary.Notes: We have no weight maximums to report. Height may be on a case by case basis.

All oversize load shipments will be required to display 2 “Oversize Load” signs. On must be mounted to the bumper of the truck and the other to the rear of the trailer. Signs must be a minimum of 7 feet in width and 18 inches in height with 10 inch black letters on a yellow background. Flags are required on all 4 corners of the combination and be safety red or orange in color and be 18 inches square. If the item being shipped has dimensions extending beyond the trailer then the extremities must be flagged as well. Headlights must be on at all times. A minimum of 2 flashing of strobing lights must be mounted to the rear portion of the load.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanies by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

Length: 90 feet to 100 feet one on the rear. Over 100 feet requires a rear pilot car or “chase” escort vehicle.Width: Loads over 12 wide on 4 lane is required one rear escort/pilot car. A lead or front pilot car is required for loads on 2 lane highway over 12 feet wide. Front and rear pilot cars/escorts are required for loads over 14 feet wide.Height: Over 14 feet and 5 inches is required to have a pilot car equipped with a height pole. Over 15 feet in height will require a rear chase escort vehicle in addition to 1 lead pilot car equipped with a height pole.Overhang: If over 15 feet 1 rear escort is required.Weight: If truck can maintain minimum speeds no pilot cars are required unless excessive or superload.Note: Allow 1 to 10 days for permits to be approved. Distance for pilot car to lead/chase load 500′ unless otherwise stated on permit. This is the distance between lead/chase and the truck/trailer. Maximum speeds of 45 MPH if 4 or more lanes, 35 MPH is under 4 lanes. Also read travel restrictions below.

Pilot cars/escort vehicle certifications and requirements.

In order to qualify as a pilot car vehicle in the state of Michigan you must either have a pickup truck or a passenger car with at least one rotating or flashing amber light mounted on the top of the vehicle. Pilot cars and escort vehicles must also display one oversize load sign that is 5′ x 1′ tall and have black letters no less than 8 inches tall on a yellow background. All flashing, stroking or rotating amber lights must be visible from a distance of no less than 500 feet. In addition to this we strongly suggest pilot cars and escort vehicles have the minimum of federally suggested equipment.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions for heavy-haul and oversize loads:

Travel time is sunrise to sunset daylight only with the half hour before sunrise and a half hour after sunset leniency rule. No weekend travel. No holiday travel or the day after Christmas or Thanksgiving. They have rush hours rules from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in a whole list of counties (look on permit). Wind restrictions if over 24 MPH you can’t run. Frost and thaw laws in effect from Feb. until April on weight. You can view holiday restrictions.

Width: 96 inches.Width: 102 inches on non-designated roads.Height: 13 feet, 6 inchesLength of semitrailer: 53 feet including the load.Length of a semitrailer: 50 feet including the load on non-designated roads.Length of combination of truck-tractor and semitrailer with or without load: They say there’s no limitations.Length of any other vehicle with or without load: 40 feet – bumpers are not included in measurements.Units permitted in train: 2 semi-trailers maximum.

Length of a combination: 65 feet. Semitrailers longer than 50 feet shall have a wheelbase of 37 feet to 41 feet (measured from the kingpin coupling to the center of the axles or to the center of the tandem axle assembly if equipped with 2 axles). Semitrailers longer than 50 feet are limited to 3 axles. Semitrailers longer than 50 feet shall operate on designated highways only. Semitrailers and trailers shall be measured from the front vertical plane of the foremost transverse load supporting structure to the rearmost transverse load supporting structure.Notes on lengths: Length shall not include safety and energy conservation devices including, but not limited to, impact absorbing bumpers, rear view mirrors, turn signal lamps, marker lamps, steps and hand holds for entry and egress, flexible fender extensions, mud flaps or splash and suppressant devices, load induced tire bulge, refrigeration or heating units, or air compressors. A device shall be excluded from a determination of length only if it is not designed or used for the carrying of cargo.Projection beyond front of vehicles: 3 feetOverhang beyond rear of vehicles: Any amount is permissible if the legal length is not exceeded. However, if this overhang is 4 feet or more, there shall be displayed on the extreme rear of such a load a 12 inch red flag that is square in the daytime and a red light or lantern at night.Axle limitation: A combination of vehicles shall not exceed 11 axles.Exceptions:Width: Unprocessed Logs, Pulpwood, Wood Bolts, Agricultural Products, and Concrete Pipe, (108 inches for load only), Busses, (102 inches), Implements of Husbandry: A person may only operate or tow an implement of husbandry of any width on a highway as required for normal farming operations.Length: Truck-Tractor, Semitrailer, and Trailer or Truck-Tractor and 2 Semitrailers: No overall length limitation providing the length of each semitrailer and trailer including load does not exceed 28 feet 6 inches or the overall length of the semitrailer and trailer or 2 semitrailers as measured from the front of the first towed unit to the rear of the second towed unit while the units are coupled together does not exceed an overall length of 58 feet, including load. Any such combination, except as herein described with regard to assembled motor vehicles or bodies, recreational vehicles or boats, may be operated only on such highways and routes as designated by the appropriate authorities.Truck and trailer: Overall length not to exceed 65 feet. Any such combination may be operated only on such highways and routes as designated by the appropriate authorities.Truck and trailer notes: Designed and used to transport saw logs, pulpwood, and tree length poles. Overall length is not to exceed 70 feet including load. Any such combination may be operated only on such highways and routes as designated by the appropriate authorities. Truck and trailer designed and used exclusively to transport assembled motor vehicles or bodies, recreational vehicles, or boats: Any such combination not to exceed a total length of 65 feet, except a stinger-steered combination shall not exceed a total length of 75 feet. The load on any such combination of vehicles may extend an additional 3 feet beyond the front and 4 feet beyond the rear of the combination of vehicles.

Shipping laws, regulations, limitations and rules for shipping oversize and over-weight loads over the roads and highways in the state of Illinois. Please share your expertise or knowledge of Illinois state shipping regulations with other visitors below. Trucking and pilot car location system: Locate trucking companies and pilot cars in...

2018 National hot dog day. The term “Negative Nancy” is one we’ve all heard and are familiar with. A term most of us distance ourselves from but in reading about Loves Travel Stops free hot dog Wednesday the first thing you have to wonder is how much does that cost?...

FMCSA releases a mandated “Corrective Action Plan” for the CSA program. Cutting through the commentary here are the nuts and bolts. The actions the FMCSA stated it will take in its 10 page corrective action plan will include: Moving forward to develop and test an IRT model. That model will...

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Michigan State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Locate oversize, heavy-haul trucking companies and pilot cars.

Do I need a trucking permit? Legal load limits.

Georgia maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required.

Length: 75 feet maximum overall combined including overhang. However, 60 feet maximum length on some routes.Width: 8 feet maximum on some roads but on main highways and Interstates 8 feet and 6 inches is the maximum width.Height: 13 feet and 6 inches.Weight: GVW 80,000 pounds overall combined. Single axle is 20,340 pounds, tandem axles is 34,000 pounds and tridem axles depends on the spacing but is 20,340 pounds maximum on each axle in the configuration.Overhang: Overhang in not detailed much by Georgia state DOT so if you are in excess of 60 feet in length overall combined we strongly suggest you contact the oversize permitting office by telephone below.

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in Georgia:

Length: Under 120 feet long was the old rule but as of 06/26/18 it seems there’s no limit on length if that is the only dimension over routine. Also a legalWeight: Any single axle routine permit is 23,000 pounds, tandem axles is 46,000 pounds, tridem axles is 60,000 pounds, quadem axles is 92,000 pounds. Gross maximum routine permit weight limitations are: 5 axles 100,000 pounds, 6 axles 125,000 pounds, 7 axles 148,000 pounds, 8 axles 150,000 pounds. If over 150,000 pounds it’s a superload.Width: 15 feet and 6 inches. However, on some routes 16 feet is permitted with 1 front pilot car and 1 rear escort. Mobiles and pre-fab homes are limited to 95 feet in length overall.Height: Under 14 feet tall.Overhang: This is a very odd state as far as overhang is concerned. Look below under superloads and try the actual state documentation or simply give them a call at the number listed below.Notes: Georgia mentions a legal 53 trailer with no over all length restrictions on federal interstates and “STAA” designated routes. This isn’t real clear to our staff as no overhang limits would then be governed by maximum lengths. But with no maximum length if that is the only dimension that is over routine limits then we assume any length can be permitted. BE ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN TO ALWAYS REFER TO YOUR ACTUAL OVERSIZE TRUCKING PERMIT FOR ANY DISCREPANCIES.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions for heavy-haul and oversize loads:

Georgia travel times unless otherwise stated on your permit are as follows; Monday thru Saturdays from one-half hour after sunrise until one-half hour before sunset Eastern Standard Time or Eastern Daylight time depending on spring or fall. No travel is permitted on Sundays unless stated on your permit. No movement is permitted on the following holidays: New Years Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. I-285 is the boundary for Atlanta and travel within it is restricted and not permitted at all unless you are picking up or delivering within – if so travel times are not permitted from 6 AM until 9 AM and from 4 PM until 6 PM on weekdays M-F. Shipments in excess of 10 feet in width may not travel more than 55 miles per hour. Any permitted shipment that is in excess of 16 feet in width may only travel between 10 AM and and 3 PM in and around major cities. Any permitted shipment that is in excess of 12 feet in width may not travel under any circumstances if visibility is restricted to less than 600 feet or wind speed in in excess of 25 miles per hour.

Any oversize or heavy-load must be clearly identified by the appropriate signs such as “OVERSIZE LOAD” OR “HEAVY-HAUL LOAD” or other variations that are specific. Signs must be mounted on the front of the truck and rear of item being transported. Sign dimensions must be no less than 6 feet wide and 12 inches in height. Sign must have a yellow background with black letters not less than 8 inches tall. Front and rear of oversize combination must be flagged with red or orange florescent flags 18 inches square. The power unit must be equipped with a amber light – note you must purchase a amber light permit to operate one in the state of Georgia.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanies by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

QUICK REFERENCE

12 feet to 14 feet and 8 inches requires 1 front and 1 rear escort. However, on some highways and designated routes amber lights may be used instead of a rear escort.

14 feet and 8 inches up to 16 feet will require 1 front lead pilot car and 1 rear chase escort on 2-lane roads. 1 escort/pilot car may be used on interstates.

16 feet in width will be determined on a case-by-case basis – refer to your permit.

Height: When over 15 feet and 6 inches in height you will be required to have a lead pilot car equipped with a height pole.

DETAILED VERSION

Length: Over 75 feet but less than 100 feet 1 rear escort of pilot car is required. Over 100 feet but less than 125 feet long requires 1 rear escort vehicle. Over 125 feet long requires 1 front pilot car and 1 rear escort vehicle.Height: Over 15 feet and 6 inches requires 1 lead pilot car in front of truck equipped with a height pole.Width: On 2 lane roads over 12 feet but less than 14 feet and 8 inches requires 1 rear escort vehicle behind the shipment. On 2 lane roads over 14 feet and 8 inches but less than 16 feet wide requires 1 pilot car vehicle in front of the truck and 1 rear chase escort vehicle behind the load. On 4 lane roads over 12 feet but less than 14 feet and 8 inches requires 1 rear escort vehicle. On Interstates over 14 feet and 8 inches wide but less than 16 inches will require 1 chase rear escort vehicle. Requirements for loads over 16 feet wide will be decided on a case-by-case basis.

Pilot cars/escort vehicle certifications and requirements.

You must be certified (a good read) to operate a pilot car or escort vehicle in the state of Georgia (call: 888-262-8306). You must obtain a amber light permit ($2 fee 2 weeks in advance) in order to operate in the state of Georgia (call: 404-624-7211 for more information). Amber lights need to strobe and must have a minimum base size of 8 inches in diameter and be placed at the top of the vehicle. Of course newer light-bars are being accepted as pictured below. The minimum candle power rating is 35,000 or must be clearly visible from no less than 1/4 mile away. A front “OVERSIZE LOAD” sign (yellow background with 8 inch black lettering) that is no less that 6 feet wide and 1 foot tall is required to mounted on the front of all lead pilot car vehicles and on the rear of all chase escort vehicles. Pilot cars and escort vehicles are required to be equipped with 2-way communications and be in constant contact with all parties related to shipment being transported. Stop/slow paddle a minimum of 18 inches across. Safety helmet and safety vest/jacket that must be worn when exiting the vehicle. 9 yes 9 safety road triangles 17 inches tall. 8 road flares, 3 safety cones 18 inches tall, 5 fire extinguishers, first-aid kit, spare-tire, traffic wand flash-light with spare batteries. Vehicles used should either be a truck no less than 1/4 ton but no more than 17,000 pounds (GVW) or a passenger vehicle with no more than 2,000 pounds (GVW). Both sides of pilot cars must have a sign detailing the companies name and contact information visible from no less than 50 feet. Pilot cars are required to have a minimum of 2 red or orange safety colored flags mounted on the front or rear of vehicle no less than 18 inches square in shape. Passengers are not allowed with the exception of certified individuals in training status. No pets. All pilot cars and escorts must have headlights turned on low beam when operating and have lights on only when in operation (not when preparing to operate or pulled over in a turn out). Signs must be covered when not in operation. Oversize loads must pull over to allow for traffic to pass which is the only time it is appropriate to continue operating lights. Do not operate lights during pre-trip planning or any other time when not in full operation leading or chasing the shipment.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Georgia State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Do I need a trucking permit? Legal load limits.

Mississippi maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required:

Length: The maximum length permitted by the Mississippi DOT is 53 feet for trailers and 99 feet overall including the power unit.Width: The maximum allowed width is 8 feet 6 inch wide.Height: The maximum height permitted to travel on Mississippi roads and highways is 13 feet 6 inches.Weight: 80,000 pounds overall (GVW) and nor more than 12,000 pounds on your steer. Single axle limit is 20,000 pounds, tandem axle limit is 34,000 pounds, tridem axle limit is 42,000 pounds.Overhang: You are permitted to have a maximum front overhang of 3 feet and a rear maximum overhang of 14 feet and 11 inches legally.Notes:

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in Mississippi:

Length: Overall trucking permit limits for length are up to 120 feet.Width: You can now get routinely approved for up to 20 feet wide for some routes.Height: 17 feet is the maximum routine limit for permits.Weight: Steer: 12,000 pounds, single axle: 20,000 pounds, tandem axles: 48,000 pounds, tridum axle: 57,000 pounds, and up to 63,000 pounds if interstate only. Quadem axles: 64,000 or up to 72,000 pounds if on interstates only. Maximum gross weights on 5 axles: 113,000 pounds, 6 axles: 123,000 pounds, 7 axles: 128,000 pounds, 8 axles: 141,000 pounds. Over-weight dozers in most cases are allowed to be permitted with blade detached and included on trailer. IN many cases you for over-weight shipment a comprehensive, detailed review including drawings of the product, trailer and axle spacings as well as the route you prefer to travel will be required when filing for Mississippi heavy-haul trucking permits.

Overhang: Mississippi DOT has no set limitation for overhang for routine permits should not be a problem unless you intend on exceeding the law of 1/3 (no more than 1/3 of item being shipped overhangs).Notes: If you are not sure about any routes in Mississippi you can use their route checker here to look up your limits. For more documentation see; Mississippi oversize and heavy-haul permit regulations.

Mississippi superloads.

Mississippi superload information:

Length: When over 120 feet in length overall combined a superload permit will need to be filled.Width: If the shipment is in excess of 20 feet in width a superload permit will be required.Height: When in excess of 15 feet and 7 inches in height if you have a second dimension that is over the legal limit or depending on your desired route you may be required to file as a superload. 15 feet and 7 inches in height will require a route survey. Over 16 feet in height will reguire a route survey, letters from all pertinent utility companies and special approval from the MS DOT permitting department which may result in superload permit applications.Weight: Whenever a shipment is in excess of 141,000 pounds it will qualify as a superload and must be permitted as a superload in order to ship.Overhang: Overhang alone will more than likely not be a determining factor if superload permits are required.Notes: Always work with Mississippi state DOT proactively. They’ll do their best to get the shipment in the proper category and correct permit issued. Excessive weights must meet bridge analysis specifications in order to be safely transported.

All shipments that are oversize (and over 12 feet wide) being transported within the state of Mississippi are required to have signs. Sign dimensions will need to be at least 84 inches wide and 18 inches in height. All signs should have the words “OVERSIZE LOAD” on them and black letters that are at least 10 inches in height and 1 and 5/8 inches thick. All signs should have a yellow background with black letters. Red or orange fluorescent safety flags are required as well as and should be used on all four of the outer most extremities of the combination (front to rear) and mounted a minimum of 6 feet above pavement level. All safety flags should be minimum of 18 inches square in shape. If the shipment is in excess of 12 feet wide it is required to have flashing amber lights mounted on both sides of the rear extremities in all cases.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanies by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

QUICK REFERENCE

Length:

If in excess of 95 feet overall; 1 pilot car/escort vehicle will be required. Some routes will require 2.

If in excess of 105 feet overall: 1 pilot car and 1 escort vehicle will be required..

Width:

If permitted to travel during night hours 1 escort vehicle will be required when 10 feet or more wide.

If in excess of 12 feet and 11 inches 1 pilot car or escort vehicle is required.

If in excess of 16 feet wide 1 pilot car and 1 escort vehicle will be required.

Height: Mississippi state DOT may require 1 pilot car vehicle equipped with a height pole on some routes if over 14 feet in height. A route survey may be mandatory for shipments in excess of 15 feet and 7 inches in height depending on desired route..Overhang: If in excess of 15 feet in the front will require 1 front lead pilot car is required. chase escort vehicle is required. Some routes require 1 lead pilot car rather than chase.

DETAILED REFERENCE

Length:

Pilot cars or escort vehicles (front of rear depends on route and lanes) will be required whenever the overall combined length of the shipment exceeds 95 feet. If the shipment is in excess of 105 feet overall you may be required to have 1 front lead pilot car and 1 rear chase escort vehicle depending on route.Width: Over 10 feet wide anytime night travel is permitted requires 1 pilot car or escort vehicle. Over 12 feet and 11 inches requires 1 pilot car/escort vehicle. Over 13 feet wide requires 1 front lead pilot car on 2-lane roads or 1 rear chase escort vehicle on 4-lane roads.Height: 15 feet and 6 inches (over 15 feet and 7 inches requires a route survey) may require 1 lead pilot car depending on desired route. A lead pilot car equipped with a height pole will be required for shipments in excess of 16 feet in height.Notes: In some cases a rear escort can be eliminated by attaching 2 (5 inch) amber lights mounted on the rear of the shipment. If you plan to implement this option note that you are also required to have a monitoring device in the truck cab that confirms both amber light bulbs are in operation.

Pilot cars/escort vehicle certifications and requirements.

Mississippi law for pilot cars is very basic. We suggest you follow the federal pilot car and escort vehicle requirement guidelines but as of 2018 the requirements are as follows: A single motor vehicle equipped with a amber rotating or strobing light mounted at the top of the vehicle. Two red or range fluorescent safety flags mounted on the vehicle. A “OVERSIZE LOAD” mounted at either the top of the vehicle that does not obstruct view of the strobe/rotating amber light of a “OVERSIZE LOAD” sign mounted to the front when leading or rear when chasing (following) a oversized load. Signs must be covered when not in operation.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions for heavy-haul and oversize loads:

Daylight hours are define as 1/2 hour after sunrise and 1/2 hour before sunset. Travel is permitted on Saturdays with no travel at all permitted on Sunday. If your shipment is in excess of 12′ wide you may not travel on Saturday. You may not travel on the following holidays: New Years day, Memorial day, Independence day, labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. You may not move any later than 12 noon on any day that comes before one of these holidays. For shipments that are in excess of 12′ in width you are strongly encouraged to route your shipment around high traffic density areas and may not travel in areas of high traffic from 7 AM – 8:30 AM and again from 4:30 – 5: 30 PM with the exception of I-10 ( travel during these hours is permitted).

DOT contact information and notes.

Mississippi state DOT office permit contact information:

Mississippi Department of Transportation Permit Division
Post office box: 1850
Jackson, MS 39215Telephone: 601-359-1717 or Permits: 888-737-0061Office hours: 7:30 AM until 4:30 PMWebsite: https://www.expresspass.ms.gov/trucking/E-mail: msdotpermits@mdot.ms.gov
Central Daylight Time
Notes: To file for oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits online you must have a account already set up with MS state DOT. MS is a member of SASHTO.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Mississippi DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Trucking company & pilot car directory.

Locate trucking companies and pilot cars in Maine:

Legal load limits.

Maine DOT legal size and weight limitations:

Length: 69 feet combined overall and the maximum length of your trailer can not exceed 48 feet.Width: 8 feet and 6 inches in the maximum width allowed by Maine DOT.Height: 14 feet is the maximum height allowed to travel in Maine legally.Weight: 80,000 pounds GVW is the maximum weight allowed without a permit.

Routine trucking permits.

Oversize and overweight trucking permits that are routinely issued by the Maine state DOT office:

Length: 125 feet in length is the maximum for a routine trucking permit.Width: 16 feet wide is the maximum for a routine permit and anything wider than this will require a police escort. If over 18 feet wide you will not be allowed to travel on the turnpike.Height: 16 feet high in the most on a routine permit (13 feet and 6 inches is the limit on the Maine turnpike) and this depends on your routing. If you are close to this or over you will possibly have to have a route survey done and you will be required to notify all utility companies that have obstructions along your route.Weight: Tandem axles: 52,000 pounds, tridum axles: 75,000 pounds, quadem axles: 100,000 pounds. Gross weight for 5 axles is: 130,000 pounds, for 6 axles: 140,000 pounds, and for 7 axles is the maximum gross weight allowed is: 167,000 pounds maximum.

Maine DOT superload information:

Anything that is over 125 feet long, 16 feet wide, 16 feet tall or over 125,000 pounds in weight is considered a superload by the Maine DOT. Permit approval could take 30 days depending on your proposed route and how far you want to exceed legal limits. You may wish to see: Maine state oversize and heavy haul trucking laws.

Permitted travel times and restrictions.

Maine DOT permitted travel times and travel restrictions:

One 1/2 before and 1/2 hour after sunset rule applies. With the exception of during the months of July and August you may travel on Saturdays and Sundays but may not during these 2 months. There is no holiday travel on the following holidays: New Years day, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Columbus day, Veterans day, Thanksgiving day, Black Friday and on Christmas day.

NOTES: Turnpike travel: you may travel on the Maine turnpike during the daylight hours from Monday until Friday at 12 noon. You may not travel on the weekends. Max width if 14 feet 6 inches and for height see “Routine permits” above. You can reach the Maine turnpike office at 207-871-7771. Mobile home shipments can only travel on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and on Thursdays – after that you may not travel. Night shipments may be approved but have to clear the Maine state police for permission first.

When pilot cars are required.

If your shipment is over any of the following you will be required to have a pilot car or escort vehicle by the Maine DOT office.

If highway is divided, a single pilot car or escort vehicle is to be positioned at the rear of the vehicle. If the highway is undivided, a single pilot car or escort vehicle is to be positioned at the front of the truck and trailer.

NOTES: Signs must say “oversize load” in 10 inch high black letters on a yellow background.
They must be at least 7 feet wide by 18 inches high and posted on both the front and rear.
18 inch by 18 inch flags must be posted on all four corners of load. Pilot cars must have 2-way radio that has contact with at least a ½ mile range. The truck must have a flashing amber light on top of the cab.

NOTES: The Maine turnpike requires a separate permit and has its own size/weight limits. (800) 698-7747 or 207-871-7771. Permits can be purchased
at Maine Turnpike toll plazas. Cost is $10. Signs must say “oversize load” in 10 inch high black letters on a yellow background. They must be at least 7 feet wide by 18 inches in height and posted on both the front and rear. 18 inch by 18 inch flags must be posted on all four corners of load. Pilot cars must have 2-way radio that has contact with at least a ½ mile range. The truck must have a flashing amber light on top of the cab.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Maine State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Nebraska oversize, heavy-haul trucking permits and pilot cars.

Do I need a trucking permit? Legal load limits.

Nebraska maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required.

Length: Overall no longer than 85 feet on designated highways. Trailer length maximum is 53 feet.Weight: 80,000 pounds GVW, 20,000 pounds on a single axle, 34,000 pounds on tandem axles.Width: 8 feet and 6 inches.Height: 13 feet and 6 inchesOverhang: No set rules, case-by-case. We figure 3 feet of front or rear should be safe but by no means is that policy. For clarification be sure refer to your permit.Notes: For documentation refer to: Nebraska legal limitations for transport.

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in Texas:

Length: Up to 120 feet long is routine. Anything over will be assessed but limits are relaxed.Weight: They do not use the federal bridge formula. 20,000 pounds per axle is the maximum. Anything over 110,000 pounds combined overall is going to be a superload. 20,000 pounds on a single axle, 40,000 pounds on tandem axles, 60,000 pounds on tridum axles, 80,000 pounds on quadem axles. Dummy axle must carry minimum of 8,000 pounds or 8% of the gross total weight.Width: Figure up to 14 feet as a routine permit. They are strict on width and over 14 feet wide is going to be looked at as superload unless it’s a light load. Case-by-case but if you are heavy you may need approval from Lincoln, NE (up to 5 days processing times).Height: Up to 14 feet and 6 inches is considered routine and some routes may require a high pole. If you are over 16’ feet a high pole is mandatory.

Nebraska superloads.

Requirements for extra-heavy or over-dimensional (superloads in NE):

For the purpose of this reading you can figure superload dimensions are anything that is in excess of the dimensions or weights mentioned above in “routine”. If you are close then it will be up to the state to determine if you must file for your permit as a superload or not. See actual Nebraska state oversize and heavy haul trucking laws.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy-haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions for heavy-haul and oversize loads:

Travel time is half hour before sunrise and a half hour after sunset leniency rule. Weekend travel is permitted but they do have travel time restrictions around Lincoln, NE and Omaha, NE during both weekdays and weekends. Travel is prohibited on most all holidays and the day after Thanksgiving.

All loads being shipped in Nebraska must be marked with oversize load signs shipments are also required to have square red or orange florescent flags on all four corners to include the power unit and must be 18 inches. Pilot cars or escort vehicles that are used during the shipment must have flags in the front if leading or the rear if chasing. One revolving amber light must be on the top of the power unit as well as on the top of the pilot car. All signs must be yellow and background with black letters no less than 10 inches in height. For night time moves on shipments that are in excess of 12 feet wide a light bar attachment is required to be mounted on the rear of the load at a height that is clearly visible by motorists approaching from the rear.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanies by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

Length: 90’ one on the rear. Over 100’ needs a rear and a chase pilot car.Width: They can impose a required pilot car for anything over 8’ 6”. In some cases a lightbar can be used in lieu of a pilot car. Loads over 12 wide on 4 lane is required one rear. Front is required for loads on 2 lane highway over 12’ wide. Front and rear is required for loads over 14’ wide. Front escort with height pole is required for 14’ 6” and over.Height: Over 14’ 6” needs pilot car, may need height pole depending on route.Overhang: If over 15’ one rear escort is needed.Note: Allow 1 to 10 days for permits to be approved. Maximum speeds of 45 MPH if 4 or more lanes, 35 MPH is under 4 lanes. Also read travel restrictions below.

Pilot cars/escort vehicle certifications and requirements.

All escort vehicles or pilot cars must be equipped with a amber light or light bar and must have a left and right side flashing or Rotary amber or yellow light of sufficient size that will be visible 360° from a distance of no less than 800 feet. Lights must be a minimum of 50 candle power bulbs. Lights must be no less than 6 inches in diameter.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Nebraska State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits in MO:

Length: 53 foot is the maximum. Over 90 feet combined overall requires 1 rear escort. 120 feet can be permitted. Anything over is a superload.Width: Figure up to 14 feet as a routine permit. Some routes/distances may qualify as routine, see: state laws.Height: 14 feet and 6 inches depending on routing/distance. To see if others qualify see above “state laws” link.Weight: Single axle 20,000 pounds, 46,000 pounds on tandem axles, tridem axles 60,000 pounds (no more than 21,000 on any single in combination), quad axles 72,000 pounds (no more than 19,000 pounds on any single axle configurations), 5 axles 104,000 pounds, 6 axles 120,000 pounds, 7 axles (config. 1-2-4) 130,000 pounds, 8 axles 160,000 pounds, 9 axles (config. 1-4-4) 156,000 pounds.Overhang: Anything over 53 feet in length requires a permit. If you overhang or are in excess of 53 feet by a 1/2 inch you are required to obtain a permit.

Missouri superloads.

Requirements for extra-heavy or over-dimensional (superloads in MO):

All superload shipments are required to have a minimum of 2 million dollars in single limit combined liability insurance. For simplicity a superload in Missouri is any shipment in excess of the above dimensions or weights listed above in “routine”. For complete details of state laws.

When pilot car or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanied by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

Notes: If the shipment consists of 2 dimensions being over the legal limits 1 pilot car and 1 escort vehicle are required.

DETAILED REFERENCE – #####updating live June 25th #####

Length: Anything over 90’ requires one rear/chase vehicle.Width: Two lanes total over 12” 4”’ wide needs one front up to 14’. Four lanes total over 12’ 4” wide requires one rear.Height: If over 15’ 6” you need a high pole and a rear/chase vehicle and can only move from 6:30 -9:00 am and 3:30 – 6:00 pm on all routes. Over 17’ 5” needs route survey and bucket truck.Overhang: Anytime load is in excess of 53 feet.

Pilot car and escort vehicle requirements, certifications.

In order to operate a pilot car or escort vehicle in the state of Missouri you are required to have a minimum of the following:

Missouri state laws says pilot car/escort vehicles must be a standard size and have unrestricted vision in the front and rear. Vehicle must be in safe operating condition. “Oversize Load” signs must be displayed towards the front or rear, whichever is applicable. Signs must not be visible when not in service. Signs must be a minimum of 5 feet in length and 1 foot in height. Signs must have a yellow background color with thick (1 inch minimum) black clear, professional print quality lettering. All escort vehicles must be equipped with safety colored red or orange florescent flags that can be mounted on both sides of the front of lead pilot car vehicles or both rear sides of chase escort vehicles. All vehicles involved in shipment must have 2-way radio capabilites. Insurance requirements must be a minimum of $50,000 for personal injury per person. $200,000 for accident/property damage and/or combined single limit liability of $250,000.

Note: Flaggers or any person directing or altering traffic is required to have a “flaggers certification” and be flagger certified.

Travel Restrictions

Travel is restricted if over 12’ 4” wide in most areas to 6:30 am (or a half hour after sunrise) until 9:00 am then resume at 3:30 pm until 6:00 pm (or a half hour before sunset). If over 14’ wide no movement on Saturday or Sunday at all. You may move Monday thru Friday but only. For now, consider this info as a basic guideline for estimates only. Please call the State of Missouri for exact laws. And always be sure to read the instructions on your permit(s).

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Missouri State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in NV:

Length: There really isn’t any routine maximum length. It all depends on proposed route and the state. After 105 feet in length it can get complicated.Width: 17 feet. However some routes are restricted, see notes below;Height: 16 feet.Weight: Single axles 20,000 pounds, tandem axles 46,725 pounds, tridem axles 58,000 (to 59,000 see below) pounds. Determined by bridge formula, desired route, tire size and axle spacings especially for singles, tandems, tridums and quadem axles. Gross weights are: 5 axles 92,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum axle spacings, 6 axles 96,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum of axle spacings, 7 axles 101,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum of axles spacings, 8 axles 106,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum of axles spacings.Overhang: No more than 15’ combined total but you want to check with them to make absolute sure as routing can effect this limit.Notes: For weight restrictions Nevada has different routes marked. Choose the map you need for the entire state, western, eastern and southern restricted areas. You can also view a list. For purple, orange and green areas. Also, restrictions for width and weight are in effect on the following routes: route map, route list. Also note to get the extra 1,000 pounds as noted above (59,000 pounds on tridem configurations) you are allowed to use up to 2 tridem configurations only. Any additional tridem axle configurations will max out at 51,000 pounds. If you have tridem configurations on your tractor that will be counted as 1 of the 2. However, the distance between the steer axle and the center tridum axle must be a minimum of 18 feet. It is possible to to exceed this within reason but is reviewed case by case by the NVDOT permitting office.

Nevada superloads.

Requirements for extra-heavy or over-dimensional (superloads) in NV:

Nevada is picky about weights and heights. Rather than attempting to illustrate a list of items that may not apply we suggest if your shipment does not fall within the set maximums listed above it’s more than likely going to be considered a superload by NVDOT. The permitting process for superloads is different than the normal oversize or over-weight trucking permits in Nevada and must be fully drafted by the company or person requesting the permit. For instructions for the format your super-load application must be in see: Nevada-superloads.

NOTE: any special purpose or special needs loads that are outside of the normal permitting parameters will classify as a superload.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy-haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions:

Remember to refer to your actual permit for travel times and restrictions. For Nevada daylight travel hours are defined as one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset with some restrictions; under 12 feet wide, 110 feet long or 15 feet tall may also travel during night hours and on weekends as long as you are not on I-80 between Sparks, NV and the CA state border or on I-15 between Las Vegas and the CA state border. There are no weekday curfews for any cities and if your load is under 12 feet wide, 100 feet long or 15 feet tall you may travel on holiday. However, if your load is in excess of these dimensions holiday travel restrictions are on the following days: New Years day, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. If a large event is predicted to create dense traffic they may restrict that date as well, ie: state fairs, etc.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanied by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

QUICK REFERENCE

Length:

over 105 feet in length requires on escort. This applies to both 2 lane and 4 lanes roads.

Width:

2 lane roads:

12 feet requires 1 pilot car or escort.

14 feet requires 1 pilot car and 1 escort.

16 feet requires 3 total pilot cars and escort vehicles.

17 feet will require a review which will probably require 1 pilot car and 1 escort and 1 police escort.

4 lane roads:

14 feet requires 1 pilot car or escort.

16 feet requires 1 pilot car and 1 escort.

17 feet requires 1 pilot car and 1 escort and 1 police escort.

Height:

if over 16 feet and 6 inches in height you will be required to have 1 pilot car equipped with a height pole.

DETAILED REFERENCE

Length: If shipment is over 110 feet in length you are required to have 1 pilot car behind the shipment.Width: If your shipment is over 12′ wide on up to a 3 lane road you are required to have 1 escort vehicle in the front of your shipment. If over 14′ wide on up to a 3 lane road you are required to have 1 escort in the front and 1 pilot car in the rear of the load. If over 14′ wide on a 4 lane road you are required to have 1 rear escort. If over 16′ you are required to have 1 front pilot car and 1 rear escort on 4 lane and all other roads.Height: Loads that are in excess of 15′ 6″ are required to have a front high pole pilot car at all times.Weight: Pilot cars and escorts are usually not required on shipments over weight that are able to maintain the minimum posted speed requirements. If you are not able to maintain minimum speeds you will be required to have a minimum of a rear escort vehicle if travelling in urban and some rural areas.Overhang: If in excess of 25 feet you will be required to have a minimum of 1 pilot car.Notes: Some routes are completely restricot car.ted. If in the Hoover dam vicinity shipments are not permitted for anything over 10 feet in width but if 10 feet will require 1 pilot car and 1 escort.

Pilot car and escort vehicle requirements, certifications.

In order to operate a pilot car or escort vehicle in the state of Nevada you are required to have a minimum of the following:

First of all the state of Nevada requires that all pilot and escort vehicles be certified. If you are officially certified by another state then this is recognized by the state of Nevada as valid certification and you may operate within the state however, in order to have an amber light mounted to ANY vehicle you must first obtain a permit from the state which costs $2.00 per vehicle, per year. You can do that online by clicking here.
A pilot car or an escort vehicle is required to be equipped with a strobing or flashing amber light that is visible from a distance of no less than 500′ in daylight and from all 360 degree angles, mounted to the roof and above signs. The light must be a minimum of 50 candle power and if it is a rotating light must have a lens of no less than 5″ in diameter with a flash count or not less than 50 per minute. Any vehicle used for this purpose must be no less than 60″ in width, with a wheelbase of a minimum of 95″ with no more than 2 axles and a manufacturer’s gross weight of no more than 16,000 pounds.
Each vehicle must be equipped with a two way radio that is in constant contact with/to all parties involved in the shipment, 5 pound (minimum) fire extinguisher, 3 bi-directional 18″ road triangles, 1 stop/slow sign with 5′ pole handle, 1 hard hat, 1 reflective safety vest, a copy of the ANSI/ISEA manual which can be ordered online here for $30. Drivers must be a minimum of 18 years of age, have a valid drivers license, and must be flagger/flagman “capable or carrying out flagging responsibilities” (we strongly suggest a flagger safety class) of controlling traffic, wearing a approved safety yellow-green safety jacket or vest and equipped with a red flag and a stop/slow paddle of no less than 18″. Each vehicle should be equipped with proper signs that specify “oversize”, “oversize load” or “wideload” as well as “long load” with black letters a minimum of 10″ in height with a letter thickness of no less than 1 5/8″ on a yellow background which are removed or covered while not in work transit mode. Pilot car and escort vehicles must have a placard on each side of the vehicle with the companies name and phone number clearly visible from a distance of no less than 50′.
Operators of pilot cars and escort vehicles will maintain a reasonable distance from the shipment which all depends on weather, traffic, road conditions and the speed you are travelling with reasonable distance defined by how much time it takes for the shipment driver to recognize your indications to stop, slow or pass as necessary.

Shipment, truck and trailer markings.

Truck, trailer and shipment required signs, banners and flags:

All trucking companies that are hauling oversize and overweight shipments must have a amber colored strobing or flashing light affixed to the top of the tractor trailer cab that is visible 360 degrees from a minimum distance of 500′. Signs that state the nature of the shipment; “oversize load” or “wideload” signs in the overall front and rear of the shipment. Signs will be no less than 7′ in width and 18″ in height with black lettering no less than 10″ in height with a lettering thickness of no less than 1 5/8″ thick on a yellow background. Signs must be mounted securely and free of any dirt or debris. Warning flags are to be used only in daylight hours and must be florescent orange in color with a minimum size distance of 18″ from one corner to the next corner and be placed at the outer most corners of the shipment as well as on any protrusions. IF the shipment is permitted to travel during night hours must have 2 constant display amber lights placed at the very most front extreme of the shipment, two amber steady burning lights on the outer (side) center of the shipment and two red steady lit lights on the outer most rear of the shipment. THIS INCLUDES OVER-WEIGHT LOADS MOVING AT NIGHT.

Frost laws and restrictions for Nevada state.

Frost and thaw laws for Nevada:

Nevada is fairly elusive on frost and thaw law travel restrictions. They do provide a map but there is not much detail on it as far as the exact roads that must be travelled. You can view the frost law map or view this thaw law material published by the state DOT which does reference it as well. Then they also have some basic shipment route information that references it as well for the state of Nevada.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Nevada State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Do I need a trucking permit? Legal load limits.

Tennessee maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required.

Length: 50 feet from the kingpin to the rear of the trailer or load that is on the trailer. Any type of pole shipping that exceeds 75 feet overall will require a oversize transport permit to be issued.Width: 8 feet 6 inches wide.Height: 13 feet and 6 inches tall.Weight: 80,000 pounds gross (GVW).Overhang: 4 feet in the rear (requires 12 inch red safety flag) and 4 feet in the front.

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in TN:

Length: 120 feet long overall.Width: 16 feet wide. Anything that is in excess of 4 inches from either/both sides of the trailer is required to be flagged in front and rear. Flags must be 12 inches square minimum and safety colored orange or red.Height: 15 feet about does it for max height in TN on most routes. At 15 feet in height you can count on being required to have a high pole (hi pole) escort.Weight: Single axle 20,000 lbs, tandem axles 40,000 lbs, tridum axles 60,000 lbs, quadem axles, 80,000 lbs. Gross weight on 5 axles is 100,000 pounds, 6 axles 120,000 pounds, 7 axles 140,000 pounds, 8 axles 160,000 pounds. Once you hit 150,000 pounds that’s in in TN. You’re going to have to be granted special permission for your shipment to move.Overhang: Depends on routing. 10 feet is probably not going to be a problem but much more than that is going to create delays. Over 1/3 of actual item being shipped length is not going to go over real well. Consider a different trailer is you are time sensitive. If shipment is extended beyond 4 feet from the rear of trailer red safety flags a minimum of 12 inches square are required on both sides.

Tennessee super-loads.

Requirements for extra heavy or extra dimensional (superloads) in TN:

Shipments that are defined as super-loads are typically any that exceed any of the weights or dimensions described above in routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits. Shipments that are in excess of 15 feet in height or 16 feet in width will not be allowed to travel via conventional permits if they is a public safety factor including potential property damages. Shipments that exceed 16 feet in height are seriously frowned on in the state of TN and will require additional approval to be considered for permitting.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions:

The one half hour before sunrise and one half hour after sunset basic rule applies. No travel on Sunday. If over-weight only continuous travel is permitted. Night time travel for overweight is not a problem as long as minimum speed limit can be maintained by carrier. Anything other than over-weight is daylight travel only for the most part unless otherwise specified on your permit. In cities and high density traffic areas travel may be restricted between 7 and 9 AM and 4 and 6 PM on weekdays – be sure to refer to your permit. On the following holidays no travel is permitted: New Years day, Good Friday, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. The Tennessee state DOT permit office is closed on these days as well and additionally on: Martin Luther King day, Presidents day, Columbus day, Veterans day and the day after Thanksgiving. However, travel is not restricted on any of these days if it is not on a Sunday unless otherwise specified on your permit. Note that failure to comply with designated travel time restrictions can result in the carrier/shipment being placed on permit issue restriction for 365 days. Inclement weather such as ice, snow, rain, wind and anything that restricts reasonable visibility is observed. For more information on TN road conditions.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanied by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

Notes: Combination loads are not permitted if two oversize dimensions exist. Example: a bulldozer with a wide blade and another piece of machinery that is too tall on one single trailer. Blades and buckets on bulldozers or grading machinery are common examples. All oversize machinery must be loaded onto a trailer with extremities facing towards the rear of the trailer. Any machinery shipments with blades or buckets, etc. that is in excess of 13 feet and 6 inches will not be permitted unless removed from the machinery

DETAILS

Length: For overall lengths of up to 85 feet you can get by with a rotating or strobing amber light. If shipment is over 85 feet and 1 inch in length you will be required to have 1 pilot car (escort vehicle). If your shipment combination is over 120 feet in length you be required to have 2 pilot cars or escort vehicles.Width: If shipment is under 10 feet wide you will need no pilot cars (escorts). Shipments 10 feet 1 inch to 12 feet wide will require 1 pilot car on a 2 lane road if the distance from one side of the road to the other is less than 24 feet in width with the shoulder size excluded in measurement. If your load is over 12 feet (up to 14 feet) wide you will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car (escort vehicle) on all 2 lane roads and highways. If your load measures 12 feet t0 14 feet in width and you are traveling on a 4 lane highway you will only be required to have 1 rear pilot car (escort vehicle). If your shipment is 14 feet to 16 feet in width you will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car (escort vehicle).Height: If height of load exceeds 15 feet a front high pole vehicle is required.Weight: If the shipment is able to maintain minimum speeds no escort vehicle is required.Overhang: This is determined on a case-by-case basis. It will depend on your proposed routing. If you have any additional information on over-hang please comment below in order to help others. Thank you.

NOTE: Mobile homes exception. All mobile homes up to 16 feet wide will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car. Mobile homes are also allowed to travel on every day except for Sundays. Travel times are from 9 am until 4 pm with all day travel permitted on Saturdays.

Pilot car and escort vehicle requirements, certifications.

NOTE BE ADVISED NEW LAWS FOR 2018 WILL BE RELEASED VERY SOON. Tennessee state shipping regulations state that all pilot cars/escort vehicles must display either both bumpers or 1 roof mounted “OVERSIZE LOAD” or “WIDELOAD” sign (which ever is applicable) visible from both the front and rear of the vehicle and only displayed while working. Sign must be at least 5′ long but no greater than 7′ and 12″ in height but no greater than 18″ in height, yellow in color with black letters no less than 8″ in height but no more than 10″ in height and lettering must be a minimum of 1.4″ in width. Vehicle must be equipped with 2 horizontally mounted rotating (if rotating 8″ base is required) (or strobe) amber colored flashing or strobe light which must be visible from a 360 degree angle from a minimum of 500 feet. Vehicles must be equipped with a CB radio or 2-way communication device and be in constant communication with all parties assigned to the movement.

It is our opinion that pilot cars also have a minimum of the additional items but not required: 2 – 5 pound fire extinguishers type A, B and C, a paddle sign with the word “STOP” on one side and “SLOW” on the other with dimensions of no less than 18″ in diameter with a minimum of 6″ letters. A red safety colored flag with a handle no less than 18″ square, 3 reflective emergency road triangles or 18″ traffic cones, 8 burning road flares, 2 OVERSIZE LOAD banners (yellow with black lettering) and a safety colored (red, orange, yellow or lime green) vest, jacket or shirt (used while directing traffic). Also see: FHA Best Practices for pilot cars.

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in Texas:

Length: up to 180 feet long or see superload section.Width: 20 feet wide on “routine” permits (Go Texas!) however only 16 feet wide on the interstates.Height: again Texas has it all together with the height set at 18 feet and 11 inches maximum for routine oversize trucking permits. Anything over this height is going to require a route survey.Weight: up to 240,000 pounds for routine heavy haul trucking permits however if the shipment is in excess of 200,000 pounds with less that 95 feet of axle spacings you will have to apply for a heavy haul superload trucking permit. On single axles: 25,000 pounds. Tandem axles: 46,000 pounds. Tridum axles: 60,000 pounds and quadem axles: 63,000 pounds (confirmed May 31, 2018). 5 axles 73,260 pounds. Trunnion axles 54,000 pounds. On restricted routes: Single: 22,500 pounds, tandem: 41,400 pounds, tridum: 54,000 pounds, quad: 63,000 pounds, 5 axles 73,260 pounds, trunnion: 54,000 pounds. 5 axels gross weight 105,000, 6 axels: 119,000, 7 axles: 129,000 lbs, 8 axles depends on your axle configurations.Overhang: Go again Texas DOT! Front overhang is 25′ and rear overhang is 30′ in length for routine Texas oversize trucking permits. Nice job folks!Notes: If over 125 feet in length, 20 feet wide or 18 feet and 11 inches tall you will be required to have a route inspection. A flatbed trailer can not be used for a shipment that is considered a “wideload” and a “over-height” load. Your permit will be rejected and you will loose your payment. If a shipment has 2 different oversize dimensions (ie; long and wide or wide and tall), then it automatically will be required to have 2 pilot cars or escort vehicles.

Texas superloads.

To keep this simple any shipment that exceeds the above dimensions/weights in the “Routine” section above will more thank likely be classified as a superload shipment in the state of Texas. Superload permits issued in the state of Texas usually take at minimum 2 weeks time to be approved.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy-haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions for heavy-haul and oversize loads:

One half hour before sunrise and one half hour after sunset is considered daylight time. Night time travel is permitted in the state of Texas if the shipment is less than 100 feet long or 10 wide on the Interstate highways only. If the shipment is ONLY overweight it may travel at night on any roads. Weekend travel is permitted. You can travel on some holidays but there are some limits; if the length is in excess of 110′ long, height is in excess of 16′ or width is excess of 14′ you may NOT travel on the following holidays: New Years day, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. The Texas state DOT permit office is closed on these days as well. Texas does have quite a few travel time curfews in high density traffic areas so be sure to refer to your permit. These typically range from 6-9 am and 3-6 pm (example only). Each permit issued by the Texas DOT will specifically state exactly what the curfew law is. No Texas state heavy haul or oversize trucking permit is valid without the specific curfew restrictions attached to it.

When transporting heavy haul and oversize loads the tractor trailer unit must have their low beam headlights turned on at all times. Any shipment that extends from either side of the actual trailer width requires red or orange florescent warning flags that are no less than 16 inches square as well as red lights/lamps. If you are transporting anything that has rear overhang in excess of 4 feet from the rear of the trailer you will be required to place two red lamps at each rear extreme corner. Red lights must be visible from a minimum distance of 500 feet. Any shipment over 8 feet and 6 inches wide will require a strobe and red lighting is addition or warning flags. Trucks must have either 1 strobing amber light with a minimum base size of 8 inches or 2 simultaneous flashing amber lights mounted on the roof of power unit. Signs must be applicable to the shipment being moved such as “oversize load”, “long load”, etc. Signs must be a minimum of 5 feet in width but no wider than 7 feet with a yellow background and black letters a minimum of 8 inches tall.

When pilot cars or escort vehciles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanies by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

Length: If shipment is over 110′ in length and up to 125′ you will need 1 pilot car in the rear. Over 125′ in length requires 1 pilot car or escort vehicle in the front and 1 on the rear.Width: Shipments 14 feet to 16 feet wide will require 1 pilot car vehicle in front on a 2 lane road and 1 on the rear on a 4 lane road. If shipment is in excess of 16 feet, 1 front and 1 rear pilot car or escort vehicle will be required on all shipments on all roads and highways.Height: If height of load exceeds 17′ a front high pole car is required. If the shipment is over 18′ in height you will be required to have 1 high pole and 1 rear escort.Weight: If the shipment is able to maintain minimum speeds no escort vehicle is required.Overhang: Front overhang up to 20 feet on some 2 land roads will require 1 pilot car or escort vehicle in the front. On a 4 lane front overhang up to 25 feet requires 1 pilot car (escort) on the rear. Rear overhang; over 20 feet but not more than 30 feet requires one pilot car (escort) on the rear of shipment. If over 30 feet of overhang 2 pilot cars or escort vehicles will be required and you will need to get special approval for the permit to be issued.

Pilot cars/escort vehicle certifications and requirements.

At the date of this publish (06/20/18) there are no certifications required by the state of Texas for pilot car or escort vehicle operators. Vehicle requirements: All pilot cars/escort vehicles must display either both bumpers or 1 roof mounted “OVERSIZE LOAD” or “WIDELOAD” sign (which ever is applicable) visible from both the front and rear of the vehicle and only displayed while working. Sign must be at least 5′ long but no greater than 7′ and 12″ in height but no greater than 18″ in height, yellow in color with black letters no less than 8″ in height but no more than 10″ in height and lettering must be a minimum of 1.4″ in width. Vehicle must be equipped with 2 horizontally mounted rotating (if rotating 8″ base is required) (or strobe) amber colored flashing or strobe light which must be visible from a 360 degree angle from a minimum of 500 feet. Vehicles must be equipped with a CB radio or 2-way communication device and be in constant communication with all parties assigned to the movement.

It is only our express opinion that pilot cars also have a minimum of the additional items but not required: 2 – 5 pound fire extinguishers type A, B and C, a paddle sign with the word “STOP” on one side and “SLOW” on the other with dimensions of no less than 18″ in diameter with a minimum of 6″ letters. A red safety colored flag with a handle no less than 18″ square, 3 reflective emergency road triangles or 18″ traffic cones, 8 burning road flares, 2 OVERSIZE LOAD banners (yellow with black lettering) and a safety colored (red, orange, yellow or lime green) vest, jacket or shirt (used while directing traffic).

Heavy haul trucking and oversize load permit limitations.

Maximum weight on a single axle 25,000 pounds. On tandem axles 46,000 pounds. On tridum axles 60,000 pounds. On quad axles 70,000 pounds. On five axle trailers 81,400 pounds. On trunnion axles 60,000 pounds. If you’re axle is 10 feet wide you will be permitted the following weights on restricted routes: single axle 22,500 pounds, tandem axles 41,400 pounds, tridum axles 54,000 pounds, quad axles 63,000 pounds five axles 73,260 pounds: trunnion 54,000 pounds: gross weight five axles 105,000 pounds, six axles 119,000 pounds, seven axles 129,000 pounds, eight axles depends on axle configuration: length to 180 feet maximum overhang is 30 feet maximum width is 20 feet to 16 feet usual maximum on interstate: height is 18’11”. Any load that exceeds these dimensions or weights may be referred to as a super load. If over 125 feet long or 20 feet wide or 11 feet and 8 inches tall and it requires a route inspection please refer to Texas state form number MCD 306a.

Oversize and heavy haul trucking signs, flags and required lights.

Signs are required on all pilot car and escort vehicles. Any vehicle transporting a load that extends to the rear at least 4 feet beyond the bad of the trailers shall display on the extreme end of the load to read Lance visible in the distance of a minimum of 500 feet from the rear. To read reflectors that indicate the maximum width of the shipment that are visible at night time at all directions from the side and the rear of the shipment are required. So my trucks are required to have their low beam headlamps on when ever transporting any type of oversize or heavy haul shipment. Any load or shipment that has overhang that extends more than 4 feet beyond the rear of the trailers shall display red flags that are at least 16 inches in a square shape on all extremities of the actual load and are to be placed where the red light is required on all extremities. Also my trucks will need to be equipped with either two simultaneous Lee flashing amber lights or one rotating amber beacon light that has a base of no less than 8 inches affixed to the top of the power unit. Power unit lights must be visible from both the front and the rear of the power unit and the power unit is required to have the same 16 inch warning flags mounted on the very most forward part of the vehicle. All power units are required to have a wide load sign mounted on the front and the rear of the vehicle as well as the shipment and tow and the sign is required to have a yellow background with black letters the are at least 8 inches tall. This sign must be a minimum of 5 feet in width but no more than 7 feet and width.

If your shipment is in excess of 14 feet wide or 17 feet tall or 110 feet and linked one escort or pilot car is required. If you will be traveling on a 2 Lane Hwy. then the pilot car or escort vehicle must be in the front of the power unit. If you will be traveling on a highway with four or more lanes than the escort vehicle or pilot car must be in the rear. When the load is in excess of 17 feet in height your pilot car or escort must travel in the front of the load as well as be a equipped with a high pole. If your shipment is in excess of 16 feet wide or 18 feet tall or 125 feet long, both a front and rear pilot car or escort vehicle is required. Whenever the shipment or load exceeds 18 feet in height, your front escort must be equipped with a high pole.

Police escorts for heavy haul and oversize loads.

Official law enforcement vehicles or motorcycles may be used as a primary escort or pilot car vehicle for a permitted shipment traveling within the limits seven Inc. city if a Highway Patrol officer, Sheriff, or duly authorized deputy, or and the noticeable police officer operates on a motorcycle or car. A pilot/escort car/motorcycle must maintain two-way radio communications with the permitted vehicle and other pilot cars or escort vehicles involved with the movement of the permitted vehicle.

On shipments that are 110 feet long to 125 foot long one escort per load or convoy is permitted or to for four loads with one front and one rear pilot car or escort vehicle up to 125 feet. From 125 feet and 1 inch to 150 feet and linked a front and rear escort per load, or per convoy of 22 a maximum of four loads with one front and one rear pilot car or escort vehicle is required. From 150 feet and 1 inch and linked to 180 feet long one front and one rear escort is required per load or per convoy of up to two loads with one front and one rear escort. The spacing and lighting of a load is exactly as described above however each permitted load in a convoy must travel at least 1000 feet but no more than 2000 feet from any other permitted load in the convoy. Having a rotating amber beacon or and amber pulsating light no less than 8 inches in diameter mounted at the top rear of the actual load or shipment being shipped.

Manufactured housing transport regulations.

If a manufactured home is in excess of 16 feet wide but does not exceed 18 feet wide then one pilot car or escort vehicle is required. If traveling on a 2 Lane Hwy. the pilot car or escort vehicle must be in the front of the load. On a highway with four or more lanes a escort vehicle must be in the rear. If the load exceeds 18 feet wide then to escorts are required with one in the front and one in the rear.

Escort vehicles should be equipped with the following equipment.

All escort vehicles or pilot cars will need to be a clip with two flashing amber lights or one rotating amber beacon with a base no less than 8 inches in diameter affixed to the top of the pilot car or escort vehicle which must be visible from the sides of front and the rear of the pilot car or escort vehicle while actively engaged in duty as a pilot car or escort vehicle. All signs of and escort vehicle must display on both sides of the rough of the pilot car or escort vehicle towards the front and towards the rear the words “oversize load” or “wide load”. These required signs must be visible from both the front and the rear of the vehicle while piloting or escorting any shipment. The sign must meet the following size specifications. It must be a minimum of 5 feet wide but no more than 7 feet in width. It must be a minimum of 12 inches tall but no more than 18 inches tall. The color of the sign must be yellow with black lettering. The size of the lettering on the sign must be a minimum of 8 inches tall but no more than 12 inches tall with a thickness of no less than 1.41 inches wide. The visibility of the sign must be from the front and the rear of your pilot car or escort vehicle and must never be used if you are not on duty. All pilot car and escort vehicles shall be equipped with a two-way radio communication device which clearly communicates with the permitted vehicle as well as all other pilot cars and escort vehicles involved with the shipment of the permitted vehicle. All pilot cars and escort vehicles need to be a minimum of 1000 pounds and not more than 10,000 pounds in weight.

Travel times of escort vehicles and pilot cars that are working with oversize and heavy haul trucking companies.

If your job dimensions are restricted under daytime movement then your work hours are from one half hour before sunset and ending at one half hour after sunset. As far as holiday restrictions are concerned the maximum dimensions or weights that you can work on a shipment up to 14 feet in width or up to 16 feet in height or 110 feet long (manufactured housing) then none of them may be transported on either of the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. There are no weekend restrictions. To view curfews you may use the above links to go to the Texas Department of Transportation website at www.txdot.gov for more info. If the load does not exceed 10 feet wide or 100 hundred feet long you may travel at night on the Interstate highways only. A load that is only overweight may travel at night on any Texas Highway. The Texas state permit office will be closed on New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. Travel will not be restricted on these days and less on noted on your permit. Permit is not valid without the curfews sheet attached.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and heavy-haul trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Texas State DOT Permits office before commencing any transport of oversize or heavy haul loads.